HUNDREDS of dogs have put their best paws forward for the Pepper Tree Wines Pooch Picnic at Pokolbin. The canines and their owners lapped up the sunshine on Sunday for the seventh annual event, which organisers say was the biggest yet. “We had close to 500 people … and about the same number of dogs,” Michelle Preece, from Pepper Tree Wines, said. She said the pooches, or rather their owners, got into the competitive spirit. “Everybody loved the pet competitions with our Fashions on the Field, cutest pet and best trick events being very popular,” Ms Preece said. The pooch picnic idea evolved from a desire for the winemakers to give back to the community, and also because they love their dogs. “Winemakers always have their dog attached to them,” Ms Preece said. “Most of the staff here have a pooch.” All gate proceeds from the day will be donated to Dog Rescue Newcastle.